Overview & Reviews

Luxury-car shoppers who love value have long cheered the Audi A6. And in true Audi fashion, the midsize A6 gives you a lot for a very competitive price. One of the A6's primary strengths is its deluxe cabin. Materials are first-rate, and the overall design is nothing short of class-leading. Its winter-weather capability is another plus, as most A6s on dealer lots, like other Audis, have all-wheel drive.

But the car's most compelling asset concerns value. In terms of overall quality and performance, the Audi A6 is typically equal to or even better than its luxury sedan rivals, yet it typically costs thousands less. A used A6 represents an even more affordable proposition, though these older examples lack the athleticism of their more contemporary rivals. The latest A6 benefits further still from enhanced performance and increased driver engagement, making it a top choice in the segment.

Current Audi A6
Powering the base Audi A6 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 (2.0T) that produces 220 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Other engine choices include a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 (3.0T) with 310 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel (TDI) that cranks out 240 hp and 428 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) are standard on the 2.0T. Standard with the other engines, and optional on the 2.0T, is an eight-speed automatic coupled to all-wheel drive. Fuel economy across the board is quite favorable when compared to competing sedans.

Trim levels start with the Premium (2.0T only) and move up through Premium Plus (2.0T, 3.0T and TDI) and Prestige (3.0T and TDI). Standard feature highlights of the Premium include a sunroof, tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery and heated front seats. Premium Plus trims add larger wheels, xenon headlights, parking sensors, keyless ignition and entry, upgraded audio, a navigation system and an in-car Internet connection. The Prestige boasts adaptive headlights, unique exterior accents, quad-zone climate control, ventilated front seats and a Bose sound system. Options depend on trim levels and include LED headlights, a sport-tuned suspension, a top-view camera system, a head-up display, various electronic driving/safety aides, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.

In reviews, we rank the current Audi A6 highly for its engaging driving dynamics, excellent interior, long list of features and impressive combination of performance and fuel efficiency. Drivers with a penchant for winding roads will certainly appreciate the A6's tenacious grip on the pavement and well-balanced weight distribution, while others will likely enjoy the quiet and attractive cabin that is well stocked with intuitive high-tech wizardry. Whereas previous A6 generations played second fiddle to their Mercedes and BMW rivals, this latest version has no problem challenging them for first chair.

Used Audi A6 Models
The current A6 debuted for 2012 and represents the fourth generation in the car's lineage. Adopting the latest Audi design language, the A6 is distinctive for its large trapezoidal grille and more angular headlights. It is also notable for improvements in regard to performance, making it the go-to choice as a "driver's car." The next year brought automatic engine stop-start for the V6, available all-wheel-drive for the 2.0-liter engine and the available top-view camera system. Apart from the 2.0T having slightly less power (211 hp versus 220 hp), the unavailability of the TDI and a slight shuffling of trim levels, these latter A6s are similar to the current version.

The third-generation Audi A6 ran from the 2005 to the 2011 model year. Overall, the third-generation car represented an admirable mix of attention-getting style, entertaining driving dynamics and opulent furnishings. A wagon body style, known as the Avant, was offered alongside the sedan.

In the third generation's final year of production, three engines were offered: a 265-horsepower V6 (3.2), a 300-hp supercharged V6 (3.0T) and a 350-hp V8 (4.2). The 3.2 front-wheel-drive sedan had a CVT, while all other A6s came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The A6 Avant was only available with the 3.0T engine, AWD and the automatic.

Throughout the production run, trim levels were generally structured around engine selections. For the most part, three trims were offered: base 3.2 Premium, midlevel 3.0T Premium Quattro and top-of-the-line 4.2 Prestige Quattro. Wagons were available only in the 3.0T Premium Quattro trim. Standard features were as generous as any luxury car for the time, with navigation standard for all and the upper trims coming with heated seats. Meanwhile, Audi's easy-to-use Multi Media Interface (MMI) system made controlling audio, navigation and Bluetooth functions easy with clear and logical menus.

Those considering third-gen models should keep in mind that the base V6 made only 255 hp from 2005-'09 (later increased to 265 hp). Also, the supercharged V6 (3.0T) wasn't available from 2005-'08, while the car's V8 produced only 335 hp prior to 2007, when output was bumped to 350 hp. In terms of features, the A6 has stayed mostly unchanged, though trim packages and options were also simplified for '09, and the MMI electronics interface and navigation system were upgraded for 2010.

In reviews, we've found the engines smooth and refined. The base V6's acceleration is certainly passable, but our choice would be the 3.0T thanks to its broad range of torque and relative fuel efficiency. In fact, we've found this engine provided quicker acceleration than the V8. The A6 rode comfortably on the highway, and while it wasn't the most athletic car in its class, our editors applauded its predictable, confident feel around corners.

The second-generation A6 sedan arrived on the market in 1998 and benefited from a ground-up redesign; an all-new version of the Avant wagon debuted the following year. This was the first Audi A6 to ride on a stretched version of the highly regarded A4 platform.

For the first two years, only a naturally aspirated V6 was available, but in 2000, Audi added a spirited twin-turbocharged V6 and a torque-rich V8 to the sedan lineup. Given that acceleration tended to be sluggish with the base V6, particularly on the hefty A6 Avant wagon, Audi began offering a more powerful 3.0-liter six-cylinder in 2002. Transmission choices included a five-speed automatic and a CVT (which was introduced in 2002). In reviews, we praised the heavenly cabin and all-wheel-drive utility offered by the second-generation A6, and panned its somewhat nonlinear steering. Overall, it represents a solid choice for used-car shoppers.

The original Audi A6 came to market in 1995 as a lightly revised version of the old Audi 100 sedan and wagon. Although prices on used A6 models from this era are convincingly low, consumers should be aware that only one engine -- a 172-hp V6 -- is available on these cars. With the lightest A6 sedan weighing in at 3,400 pounds, acceleration is modest at best. However, much like newer Audis, this A6 was nicely appointed and offered a choice of front-wheel drive or Quattro all-wheel drive.

User Reviews:

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  First Audi - 2005 Audi A6
  By Deb - March 21 - 9:08 pm

  This is my first Audi - other car a 01 BMW 530. Traded in 04 Lexus GS300 for the Audi. This is certainly more powerful and agile than the Lexus but I still think the BMW handles way better all around although the Audi is Great in the snow and love the interior. It seems to need a bit of a warm up on first start - a bit hesitant and it is garaged. Once its going, its seems OK.

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  Never buy an Audi - 2005 Audi A6
  By Dr. Robert Hamps - March 19 - 8:23 pm

  I have had my Audi for a little over two months now and have had nothing but problems. My interior has peeled, various buttons have gone out including my electronic seating, my transmission has been replaced and I have had several leaks (oil and windshield wiper fluid each twice). I have done my research on these cars and will never be an owner of an Audi again. I have since traded my car in for a Lexus, which was worth it.

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  Super great interior and comfort - 2005 Audi A6
  By abel gonzalez - March 19 - 4:37 pm

  Careful consideration is paid to making every control very accessible, logical and easy to use. Not one idea was left without especial attention paid to it. That makes it much more fun to enjoy the many ammenities in can come with. It will pamper you and get you spoiled in no time !! It will take you back to wanting to stay in your car while it is parked, just to onjoy the ambiance and all of what it can offer you !!

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  Comfortable in Carolina - 2005 Audi A6
  By David - March 16 - 1:44 am

  The 4.2 is truly a magnificent car. It took four months to get it after I ordered it, but it was worth the wait. The navigation system is one of the easiest to use that Ive seen, and the voice recognition is just fun! The handling and solid feel is unmatched. The controls are easy to access and for the most part easy to learn, and I still have a lot to learn. There is so much the car can do. The ambience lighting really gives the interior a warm feeling, and to control the intensity of the lighting is even better. I know I will enjoy this car for years to come.

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  Love this CAR - 2000 Audi A6
  By TonyM - March 15 - 6:27 pm

  I used this site prior to buying my 2.7T. I was hesitant at first but after a test drive I fell in love. This is a wonderful car all around. The performance on wet or dry roads is outstanding. If snow is concern picture this, a hill early morning snow, front and rear wheel cars spinning their tires and an A6 2.7T Quattro going by without a problem. If you are looking for a car that looks good from all angles and performs as goods as it looks. Then look no further than the A6 2.7T. The only complaint is fuel economy. I also recommend Dealer service, they maybe more expensive but they know what they are doing and the peace of mind is worth it.

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  One Drive and Youll Fall in Love - 2005 Audi A6
  By Aintlion - March 11 - 11:50 am

  Im not an automotive enthusiast. When the opportunity arose to upgrade to a mid-level luxury car I decided to test drive all the major brands. I tried a Lexus GS430, Mercedes E500, BMW, Acura and then I found an Audi dealership. I took a "loan" of the A6 4.2 (they just give you the keys to borrow and tell you to come back when youre done) and I knew immediately I had to have that car. The power under the hood and the handling was simply awesome. It was more comfortable than anything else and features for the money beat all the competition. When I brought it back I tried the 3.2 but it was too late I was already spoiled. Ive been thrilled with my A6 4.2 ever since. Nice ride!

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  The A6 2.7T Rocks - 2001 Audi A6
  By pgacoop - March 7 - 4:03 pm

  My 2001 Audi A6 2.7T is my first Audi but it definitely is not my last. I love this car and everything about it. The inside display on the dash at night is by far the best of any European vehicle. My in-laws have a Mercedes-Benz and it doesnt even come close to this car.

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  Feels great - 2002 Audi A6
  By cliff - March 7 - 1:29 am

  My 2002 Audi A6 2.7T is really fun to drive. The touch shifting is great in the mountains and a adds a great deal to safety in slowing and cornering capability. The car is very quick between 40 and 80 MPH and handles very smoothly. I have the Winter package which adds tremendous comfort on the cold days. The Bose sound system is awesome!

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  Very Impressed - 2005 Audi A6
  By DK - March 6 - 4:03 pm

  After spending 20+ years driving cars made in Japan, I took a chance this time on the new A6, and what a pleasant surprise! This car is exactly waht I was looking for...the comfort and bells & whictles of a Japanese car, with the performance of the German made cars. Its the perfect balance! It doesnt drive as hard as BMWs or Mercedes, its just right!

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  1999 A6 Quatro Sedan - 1999 Audi A6
  By Paul - March 5 - 8:36 pm

  My 1999 Audi A6 Sedan looks great anddrives great. I am glad that I purchased a 10yr / 100,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty though. In four years I have already broken even on my premium for minor problems such as a heated steering wheel short, failed water pump, and window glide failure. I intend to keep car to the end of my warranty so I expect this is a case where it pays to get the extra insurance of bumper-bumper coverate with a $0 deductible.